Centennial Celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi: A Journey Towards Peace and Harmony

 Attending the two-day event commemorating the Centennial celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi was a truly profound and enriching experience. Being surrounded by such esteemed individuals like Shri Tushar Gandhi, Dr. Cyriac Thomas, and others, all united in their admiration for Gandhi's legacy, created an atmosphere charged with reverence and inspiration.

Listening to Shri Tushar Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's great-grandson, speak about his ancestor's philosophy and its continued relevance in today's world was incredibly captivating. His insights provided a deeper understanding of Gandhi's principles of nonviolence and truth, and their potential to bring about positive change.

The diverse perspectives shared by the other speakers, including Dr. Cyriac Thomas, Dr. M.C. Dileepkumar, Smt. Teesta Setalvad, Dr. M.P. Mathai, Shri M.N. Karassery, Rev. Dr. Vincent Variath, Shri Tenzin Tsundue, and Dr. Alexander Jacob, further enriched the experience. Each speaker brought their unique expertise and experiences to the table, sparking engaging debates and thought-provoking discussions.

The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the screening of the documentary "Who killed Gandhi?" by Anand Ramayya. The film's exploration of the events leading up to Gandhi's assassination and its aftermath was both moving and informative. The subsequent Q&A session with Shri Tushar Gandhi provided valuable context and insights, shedding light on the complexities surrounding this tragic event.

Throughout the two days, the overarching theme was the pursuit of peace and harmony, not just in India but across the globe. The speakers emphasized the importance of Gandhi's teachings in addressing contemporary challenges such as violence, intolerance, and social injustice.

Words cannot fully capture the profound impact of the event. The collective energy of the speakers and attendees, united in their commitment to Gandhi's ideals, created a palpable sense of hope and possibility. It was a privilege to be present in that environment, to witness the power of ideas to inspire and transform.

~ Dawn